Neurology

Commonly asked questions

• What is a neurologist?

  A neurologist is a specialist who diagnoses and treats disorders that affect the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Many neurologists also have additional training or interest in one area of neurology such as stroke, epilepsy, neuromuscular or movement disorders.

  Your neurologist will provide an overall focus on your nervous system and the condition that affects you, and will work with you to determine the best treatment plan to achieve the best outcomes possible.

• How do I see a Cabrini neurologist?

  You will need a referral from a GP or specialist to be seen by a Cabrini neurologist.

  Your referral letter needs to be dated, signed and include any relevant information to qualify for a Medicare rebate.

  Choose a specialist from our dedicated team of neurologists from the ‘Our Neurologist’ list on this page or visit our Find a Doctor directory.

• What will it cost to see a neurologist?

  Specialists can set the fee they feel is reasonable for their services.

  You can speak with your specialists administration staff to determine out-of-pockets costs for appointments prior to seeing the specialist.

  Cost of out-of-hospital treatment (‘outpatient’ services)

  If you see a Cabrini neurologist in their consulting rooms, some of the costs you might encounter could include:

  • The cost of your specialist consultation
  • Costs for tests. Your specialist may also order a range of different tests in diagnosing your condition

  Medicare may cover some, or all, of the costs for treatment and tests outside of hospital. By law, private health insurance cannot be used for medical treatment outside of hospital.

  Cost of in-hospital treatment ('inpatient’ services)

  If you are admitted to hospital for treatment, some of the costs you might encounter could include:

  • The costs of the medical treatment provided by your neurologist during your hospital admission
  • The costs of other doctors who provide care during your hospital admission, such as an anaesthetist
  • Your hospital account will include costs associated with your hospital accommodation, theatre fees and any prosthetics
  • You might also be charged for pathology tests, x-rays and other forms of medical imaging requested by your specialist during your hospital admission

  If you are a private patient, then you may have a portion of your costs covered by Medicare, some by your private health insurer and there may also be a gap that you need to pay. We recommend you enquire about the likely cost of your hospital stay before you arrive.

  You can contact your admitting doctor about medical, surgical and diagnostic costs and our Cabrini Patient Services Department about your hospital account or potential costs associated with your hospital stay.

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  For further patient admission information please refer to our Your stay at Cabrini booklet.

• How long does it take to get a diagnosis?

  Your neurologist will guide you through the process, because getting a diagnosis varies from patient to patient.

  In some cases, a diagnosis can be made after the initial consolation. Other conditions may require more time and testing to diagnose.

  What you can expect

  During the initial consultation your neurologist will examine your brain and nerve function, this may include checking your cognitive ability, speech, vision, strength, coordination, reflexes and physical sensations.

  They may also need to order imaging tests and other screenings during your visit. These can include taking images of your brain or spine, collecting blood or urine samples, and testing how well electrical signals travel through your nerves.

  At Cabrini, we offer advanced imaging for neurological patients, including MRI and PET/CT scanners, which provide superior imaging quality. To make this process as smooth as possible, our diagnostic services are all based in one convenient location at Cabrini’s Malvern hospital. To learn more please visit Medical Imaging and Pathology pages.

• Will I need to be admitted to hospital for treatment?

  There may be times when you need to be admitted to hospital for treatment. Your Cabrini neurologist will advise you. 

  Cabrini Malvern is equipped with a designated neurology ward staffed with specialised nurses and clinicians to provide you with expert care during your hospital stay.

  At Cabrini, neurology services are supported by a 24/7 emergency department and intensive care unit, located at Cabrini Malvern.

• How can Cabrini help me manage my condition and its symptoms?

  We understand that you may need specialised care and support to help manage your condition and its symptoms. Whether you need help with pain management, rehabilitation therapy or emotional support, we can help and guide you along the journey back to better health.

  Cabrini offers:

  • Parkinson Program – specialises in working with people with Parkinson’s and similar movement disorders. Our expert team of clinicians will help you manage your symptoms so you can “do what you do” as independently as possible.

  Find out more about the Cabrini Parkinson Program

  • Neuro-oncology Nursing Program – is Australia’s only dedicated service that extends care from the hospital ward to the home for patients with a primary malignant brain tumour. Download our Neuro-oncology Nursing brochure to find out more.

  In addition, Cabrini offers specialised neurology rehabilitation programs to facilitate the recovery of people with neurological conditions and movement disorders.  Our health professionals at Cabrini Rehabilitation will focus on improving your physical and mental wellbeing.

  Our multidisciplinary team has extensive experience with neurological conditions including:

  • Brain tumours
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Stroke

  Learn more about Cabrini Rehabilitation.

• How can Cabrini support my emotional and psychological needs?

  You may feel overwhelmed upon learning you have a neurological disorder.

  It's important to take care of your emotional and psychological wellbeing, so you'll feel better and stay healthier before and during your treatment.

  Our Allied Health experts are dedicated to improving your mental and physical health, our expert team includes:

  • Neuropsychologists
  • Physiotherapists
  • Occupational therapists
  • Psychologists
  • Social workers
  • Chronic disease management experts

  Learn more about the Cabrini Allied Health Centre.